Liberia Chief Justice proposes abolishing jury trials

During the opening of the Supreme Court’s October Term, Chief Justice Yarmie Quiqui Gbeisay Sr. proposed the abolition of Liberia’s jury trial system. He cited widespread allegations of jury tampering, including bribery, intimidation, and interference in several judicial circuits. Gbeisay noted that a corrupt jury undermines the integrity of criminal trials and public confidence in the judiciary, specifically referencing incidents in Nimba and Bomi counties where interference was identified following acquittals.

Senator Abraham Darius Dillon has opposed the proposal, arguing that removing juries threatens a fundamental constitutional right.

In his address, the Chief Justice also called for national unity, urging Liberians to respect the rule of law regardless of ethnic or tribal background. He warned that tribalism can trigger violence and cited past instances in Gompa City, Nimba County, where tribal sentiments were used to obstruct the enforcement of court judgments. Gbeisay emphasized that the court aims to enforce all legitimate judgments without fear or favor.